India Bolsters Air Force with Major Tejas Fighter Jet and AEW&C Aircraft Procurement
The Indian government has approved a significant procurement deal involving 97 Tejas fighter jets and six AEW&C aircraft, enhancing the Indian Air Force's capabilities. The decision, made by the Cabinet Committee on Security, involves a total expenditure of Rs 85,000 crore to boost surveillance and replace aging fighter jets.
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The Indian government has sanctioned a major procurement initiative for the Indian Air Force, approving the acquisition of 97 Tejas fighter jets alongside six advanced airborne early-warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft. Sources disclosed on Wednesday that these acquisitions are valued at approximately Rs 85,000 crore.
The Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given its nod to this strategic enhancement of the nation's defense capabilities. Out of the total budget, Rs 67,000 crore is allocated for the Tejas jets, while Rs 18,000 crore will be spent on the AEW&C project.
The defense ministry plans to use second-hand Airbus-321 planes from Air India for the AEW&C project, aimed at strengthening surveillance and signal intelligence systems. The Tejas jets are set to augment the IAF's diminishing fighter squadrons, following a previous agreement in 2021 for 83 MK-1A jets.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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